Admission to the OTA Program

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:

Acceptance into the program is based on the following selection criteria:

  • Prerequisite course grades (all must be a "C" or above) with an overall GPA of 2.75
  • Completion of ATI TEAS and documented scores
  • Completion of two video observation reflections
  • Two recommendations based on professional behaviors from a supervisor or instructor
  • Residency (students with New Mexico residency given bonus points)

Additional information: Criminal background checks are completed on all accepted students. Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant, administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT®). After successful completion of this exam, the graduate will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In addition, all states require licensure to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT certification examination. A felony conviction may affect a graduate's ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure. 

For additional information about the OTA program please call 505-566-3849 or email ota@sanjuancollege.edu

OTA Student Handbook 

The San Juan College Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) handbook contains general information about occupational therapy and information specific to the program such as: student expectations, policies, and procedures.

View OTA Student Handbook 

Steps to Apply:

1. Apply to San Juan College

2. Contact OTA program faculty at ota@sanjuancollege.edu or 505-566-3849

3. Complete Prerequisites and General Education courses and other outlined selection criteria requirements

4. Download and Complete OTA Application